Monday 25 Feb 2019

Yeah folks, no more BNT! I struggled a bit with the decision whether to continue along the BNT or take a different route. My buddy Malcolm suggested an alternative which should get me to Canberra in about 10 days. And even though the BNT section through the Blue Mountains near Jenolan Caves is gorgeous, to see something totally different also has its appeal. I ultimately chose for the latter.

I started the day in Wang by hanging out at the bakery, which was comfortably warm and a relief from the cold wind outside. I had planned to spend an extra day in Wang, but the weather wasn’t very conducive, cold and windy, totally overcast again, so I figured I might as well move on.

One third of the way to Bathurst was partially back to Portland along the road that I came in on yesterday, then Thompsons Creek Road which became gravel before it connected to the New England Highway. That is one busy highway, but mostly wide shoulders and people moved way over to pass. I reached a high of well over 1100m a couple of times, but then the road finally went downhill. And what a ride it was! Seven kilometres without having to move my legs once! I’m finally below 700m and the temperature became immediately very amiable. Totally different country side, rolling hills, no mountains.

After following the Dividing Range for over three months I’ll have to get used to that, but I reckon it won’t be too difficult. I’m planning to stay in Bathurst all day tomorrow and do some of the self guided walks in town. The town started as a settlement in 1815, I believe the lady at the visitor centre told me. It’s the biggest city since I was in Toowoomba and lots of choice of places to have a cuppa or tucker. I’m sure I’ll amuse myself sufficiently.

I checked in at the showgrounds where they were even kind enough to lend me a couple of chairs, one which I can use as a little table.

Today’s totals 50k 3:10h 595m+ 805m-